Dear eventers

(apologies for cross posting)

We are planning a reinvention of the Science Museum’s ‘Antenna’ science news gallery in London(www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/antenna) and I’d like to reach across the Atlantic and tap into the expertise in this group, particularly when it comes to driving dialogue about science news and making the most of ‘the scientist’s contribution’.

The exhibits and online content in the existing version of the gallery are peppered with quotes and accompanying photos from the scientists involved in the latest research – we also invite them in for events – but there’s definitely potential to support a much more meaningful conversation between those involved in such front-line research and our audience.

I’m picking brains within the Museum of course, but can anyone on this list direct me to any research or positive case studies relating to the following issues I’m mulling over?

· Case studies of engagement/ dialogue-generation on science news/ current research either online, through events or exhibitions. Any especially strong or innovative formats you could point me to? How did these go down with the audience?

· What does a young audience (11+) want to hear or see/ enjoy hearing or seeing from scientists, in relation to scientific research happening right now?

· What benefits do scientists seek/ get from public engagement in a science news/ contemporary science forum? What perils do they perceive or find?

· How can the scientist’s voice be incorporated into coverage of science news without eliciting tired stereotypes and without drawing up ’I’m the expert; you’re the pupil’ barriers?

Many thanks in advance
Emily Scott-Dearing

‘Antenna’ science news team
Science Museum, London, UK
emily.scott-dearing@sciencemuseum.org.uk